Today is Jack's first birthday. Unfortunately, he developed a bad limp last night, and hasn't been able to play tug with his new birthday toys yet becuase we're trying to keep him quiet.

He is favoring his front right leg, and the limp is quite exagerated. In addition to limping, he's turning his right paw out. We are able to bend the leg and joints and touch it and apply pressure all over, until we get down to his paw, where it seems to bother him and he yanks it away especially when we touch is outside right toe. Obviously we've inspected things as best we can, and cannot see anything wrong with our eyes.

My husband took him to the vet this morning, and the little bugger was so excited to see the Dr. that he forgot about the pain and stopped limping. She sent him home and told hubby to just monitor him and keep him quiet as best we can because there isn't anything obviousls wrong.

So my questions are what else can I do to figure out what is wrong, and is there anything I can do to help him be more comfortable? I hate watching him limp around, and I'm wondering if wrapping his paw could help? And how long should I leave him to 'rest' before demanding x-rays or further investigation?

Sounds like a sprain and there is nothing you can do but wait for it to heal. I wouldnt allow him to jump down off of things or go down stairs. Like us, it can take 6-8 wks to completely heal. Crate or couch rest several times a day is good.

Happy Birthday Jack!

__________________Kari ~ Keeper, servant and mommy to the following crew

I would wait a few days. I wouldn't wrap it, I would make a foot soak and soak it for 5 minutes. I make one out of white vinegar, mostly water, and hydrogen peroxide to clean the paw. and you could do one water and Epsom salt to alleviate soreness. Get well soon and happy birthday!